Bass of the Week: Zoot Bass Boudica “Wal-A-Like”
This week, we’re taking a look at a special Zoot Bass Boudica built for Mark Newman. The 32-inch scale custom shop bass is dubbed the “Wal-a-like” in part for its Veijo Rautia Multi-coil “Wal” pickups that pay homage to the legendary instruments.
Ernie Ball Music Man Introduces 5-String DarkRay Bass
After teaming up with Darkglass Electronics to unveil the DarkRay bass last year, Ernie Ball Music Man added a five-string version to the lineup.
Josh Gilbert Leaves As I Lay Dying, Ryan Neff Steps In
Josh Gilbert has left the ranks of the California metalcore band As I Lay Dying. He made the announcement via Instagram. Ryan Neff of Miss May I will join the band for their tour.
Walrus Audio Introduces the Badwater Bass Preamp and DI
Bass players have utilized Walrus Audio pedals for years, but now the company has unveiled its first unit dedicated to bass. The Walrus Audio Badwater is a preamp and DI pedal complete with an optical compressor, an overdrive, and a four-band EQ.
Steve Lawson Pays Tribute to Rick Turner with New Album
The world lost a visionary and pioneer of the bass world when Rick Turner passed away on April 17, 2022. Steve Lawson had a special relationship with Turner, and he’s just released a tribute album, simply called “Rick”.
Just Like That: An Interview with James “Hutch” Hutchinson
Bonnie Raitt recently released her 21st studio album, entitled “Just Like That…” The album features longtime bassist and session legend James “Hutch” Hutchinson. We caught up with Hutch to get the scoop.
Korg USA Acquires Majority Interest in Darkglass Electronics
After revealing they had purchased Aguilar Amplification in January, Korg USA has announced the acquisition of another popular bass brand: Darkglass Electronics. Korg USA president Joe Castronovo delivered the news in a press release.
Matt Freeman Selling Personal Gear on Reverb
Punk bass icon Matt Freeman is opening a shop on Reverb to sell some of his bass gear, which he has collected over his career. The Rancid and Operation Ivy bassist will be selling his personal basses, pedals, and guitars.
Carol Kaye to Receive Les Paul Innovation Award at NAMM TEC Awards
Each year, the NAMM TEC Committee honors legendary musicians with the Les Paul Innovation Award. The recipient for 2022 is one of the most influential bassists of all time: Carol Kaye.
Geddy Lee Weighs In On Primus’ Rush Tribute Tour
Primus has been paying homage to the classic Rush album A Farewell to Kings by playing it in its entirety during their “A Tribute To Kings” tour. Geddy Lee finally got to witness the show and weighed in on the performance.
Smashing Pumpkins Announce “Spirits On Fire” Tour with Jane’s Addiction
The Smashing Pumpkins and Jane’s Addiction have teamed up for the Spirits on Fire tour, which will see the bands covering North America over October and November. For each group, it will be their first outing in some years.
Bass of the Week: St. Germaine Guitars Condor 5
Luthier Geoff St. Germaine of St. Germaine Guitars shared his latest bass build on the “Support Small Bass Builders” Facebook group, and it really caught my eye. This Condor 5 built for Gerald Kebreau features a sleek walnut body with a cocobolo top complemented by wenge and maple accent layers.